Compass Blog

Compass is a collection of blogs based on the imaginative research the Kensington team undertakes to ensure we find new and better ways to transform
travel into a more meaningful and personal experience. In other words, we are always on the lookout for a secret café in Paris, the best spot to find
the black rhino, a favorite local dish, a superb hike out of Buenos Aires and the next great hidden lodge. To accomplish this we've enlisted our team of
destination specialists. When they are not designing custom trips that wow our clients, they are traveling the world for inspiration. In addition, we have
pulled together a team of 'Explorers-In-Residence' - Royal Geographic Society Fellows, Explorer's Club Fellows and leading adventurers with fascinating stories.
Follow these explorers and gain a unique perspective from their awe-inducing expeditions.

Europe Destination Expert

By Europe Expert Jessica Hill
Since I was young I’ve been drawn to the rich culture and history of Italy. The country is one of the world’s great civilizations and its gorgeous landmarks, artistic treasures and intriguing history - not to mention delectable food and wine - make it truly irresistible for me. The dazzling country is made up of 20 regions, each with their own dialects, traditions, architecture and sumptuous food.
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Call yourself an adventure traveller? Your Norway tour won’t be complete without a winter visit to the world’s extreme northern wilderness, Norwegian Lapland. An untouched archipelago sitting at the top of the world, this otherworldly region is home to majestic reindeer herds, fascinating Sami culture, awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis and adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities.
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By Europe Expert Christine Wilson
Nowhere else in the world do I feel as elegant and indulgent as when I’m in France. Its opulent art & architecture, sublime cuisine, glamorous hotels & cafes, and lush scenery are pure heaven to my senses. Creating tailor-made tours through France for my clients, even if they’ve visited before, is a true pleasure. The possibilities are endless.
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Take an unforgettable journey into the earth…literally! Adventurous travelers can embark on a caving expedition just a short drive from Rekyavik, including entertaining folklore tales and an unbelievable custom made candlelit dinner inside a volcanic cave.
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I've visited Turkey a few times and on every occasion, I've ceased the opportunity to visit Cappadocia. It is a region that is well known for its unreal landscape of rock formations, gorges and underground cities. Traveling as a Kensington destination specialist means that I'm always on the look out for unique and extraordinary places to stay. It is a benefit of the trade as I've stayed in some incredible properties that easily made my experience even more memorable.
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Lynne Pettit, Kensington's Western Europe specialist, was born and raised in England and since childhood, has traveled much of the country and its surroundings. As a former flight attendant for British Airways, she developed a passion for discovering all corners of the UK and Europe and continues to follow this aspiration. During her recent travels, Lynne has focused on digging out places to stay that go well beyond the ordinary.
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After spending a week in Sicily I decided that two things are required to visit this extraordinary island - a desire for diverse experiences and a ferocious appetite. Sicily is an island best explored without a stiff itinerary, allowing ample time to wander and explore its sometimes hidden treasures. Here’s another thing I learned – a private guide and driver are essential assets to help learn and discover the varietal gems of this island.
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I’ve been on tours of Ireland a few times before but this time I had a more precise and spirited approach to my journey. I endeavored to dig deeper and unearth the charming disposition of the people, history and landscape that had formerly entranced me. By the end of my journey, I realized that it is the iconic Irish friendliness that left the biggest impression. I rediscovered a country overflowing with the warm hospitality of the most amiable people I’ve ever met during my travels.
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If you remember watching a story of a beautiful princess, the enchantment of sleep and a magical kiss from a handsome prince - then you’ve probably seen Neuschwanstein Castle. The picturesque German building was the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and has become a staple of Germany tours for years.
The Romanesque style castle was built throughout the 1870s and was originally commissioned by the famously-reclusive King Ludwig II as a summer retreat.
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So you’re on a tour of France and in need of a way to get off the radar. Why not head to a tiny inlet where locals spend their holidays soaking up the sun and throwing just about all of their cares away? Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, Il de Re is the type of place where the residents are encouraged to keep the villages as traditional as possible. At only 18 miles long and a bridge crossing away just outside the city of La Rochelle, it's the perfect escape.
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“Our trip was fantastic!!! I cannot say enough good things. You worked with our dates & time frame beautifully. Our drivers were prompt & friendly. The private guides were so knowledgeable.”– Ann Saxon